The Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that brings together creamy, cheesy goodness with smoky, savory sausage and tender layers of potatoes. Imagine a bubbling, golden-topped dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and promises a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week. This dish is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary, guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the cornerstone of this Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe. Each element plays an important role, from the creamy cheeses to the flavorful smoked sausage, and their harmony creates the perfect blend of taste, texture, and color in your casserole.
- 1½ pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes: Thinly sliced for even, tender layers that soak up all the cheesy goodness.
- 12 ounces smoked sausage: Adds a smoky, rich flavor that complements the mild potatoes perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For creating a luscious roux that thickens the sauce just right.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce to a creamy consistency.
- 1½ cups whole milk: The base of the sauce, lending a smooth and rich texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharp, bold flavor and melts beautifully.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers a gooey, stringy melt that keeps the dish irresistibly cheesy.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and depth to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory layers with a mild onion flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all other flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle, warming spice.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and flavor as garnish.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures easy removal and clean-up.
How to Make Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Smoked Sausage
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Next, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked sausage slices until they’re beautifully browned, about 4–5 minutes. Browning the sausage intensifies its smoky flavor and adds a lovely texture that makes each bite exciting. Once browned, set the sausage aside and keep that skillet handy for the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet used for the sausage, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and keep stirring for a minute or two to cook out the raw taste but don’t let it brown. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue cooking until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3–4 minutes. When it’s thick and smooth, stir in both cheddar and mozzarella cheeses along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This cheese sauce is the soul of the casserole, delivering creamy, rich layers that envelop the potatoes and sausage perfectly.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole Layers
Layer half of your thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Add half of the browned sausage slices over the potatoes. Then, pour half of the luscious cheese sauce on top, spreading it gently to cover. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, sausage, and cheese sauce, creating a beautifully structured casserole ready for the oven.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover your dish with foil and pop it into the oven for 40 minutes. This initial baking cooks the potatoes through and melds the flavors together. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes so the top turns golden and starts bubbling irresistibly. When ready, let the casserole rest for 10 minutes—this helps the layers settle and makes serving a breeze.
How to Serve Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a delightful burst of color and a fresh note that beautifully contrasts the richness of the cheese and sausage. Feel free to add a pinch of paprika for some visual flair if you want to jazz it up even more.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a hearty main dish, but pairing it with crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables provides a lovely balance. Lightly dressed greens with a vinaigrette can cut through the richness, making your meal feel fresh and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish to keep it warm and inviting. If you want to impress guests, scoop individual portions into ramekins or cast-iron skillets, then sprinkle extra cheese and broil for a few minutes to get a crispy, cheesy crust on top. Either way, this Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe promises smiles around the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this casserole stay delicious for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a quick, tasty meal the next day without any extra effort.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking for up to 2 months. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and when you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed. Freezing makes it perfect for planning busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, but the oven reheat will revive that crispy top and creamy interior much better.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage for this casserole?
Absolutely! Kielbasa, turkey sausage, or even a spicy Italian sausage can add a different twist. Just adjust the seasoning if your sausage is already well-seasoned or spicy.
What’s the best potato to use in this recipe?
Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are favorites here because they hold up well to baking and soak up the cheese sauce beautifully. Yukon Gold gives a creamier texture while Russets result in a fluffier bite.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for a few hours or even overnight before baking. Just add a bit of extra baking time if it’s baking straight from the fridge.
Is there a way to make this casserole spicier?
Definitely! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce boosts heat without overpowering the other flavors. You can also use a spicy smoked sausage for an extra kick.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or lower in fat?
You can substitute milk with unsweetened plant-based alternatives and use dairy-free cheese. For a lighter option, reduce the cheese quantities or use lower-fat versions, although this will affect the rich creaminess that makes this casserole so irresistible.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese Potato and Smoked Sausage Casserole Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate that’s sure to bring comfort and joy to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family weeknight dinners or a gathering with friends, this casserole is simple to prepare, bursting with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Don’t wait to make this winner part of your regular meal rotation!
